NOMINATIONS are now being sought for St Helens Council's new Cultural Awards.

The Youth Cultural Awards evening will be held in February for people aged under 18, with a more formal Cultural Awards evening held later the same month.

The new awards will recognise and celebrate the achievement of individuals, groups and organisations who have demonstrated a dedicated way of promoting, participating and endorsing arts, sports and heritage within St Helens, providing a much-deserved showcase for their valuable contribution.

While an independent panel of judges will choose the overall winners, the council is asking the public to nominate applicants most deserving of acknowledgment.

The closing date for nominations is December 5, with the various categories for the youth awards including visual artist of the year, performing artist of the year (dance), performing artist of the year (drama), young musician of the year, the youth arts award for outstanding achievement, outstanding sporting achievement award, and individual sporting performance award.

Contact 01744 675326 or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/events.